Despite no reported illnesses, a popular pet food brand is being recalled due to serious contamination risks.
At a Glance
- Lystn LLC, owner of Answers Pet Food, is recalling several dog food products due to salmonella and listeria contamination
- Recalled products include ANSWERS Detailed Beef Formula for Dogs, ANSWERS Straight Beef Formula for Dogs, and ANSWERS Straight Chicken Formula for Dogs
- The recall is a precautionary measure following FDA testing
- Affected products were sold in 4 lb. half-gallon cartons, both online and in retail stores
- No confirmed illnesses have been reported
Recall Details and Affected Products
Following FDA testing that found salmonella and listeria contamination, Lystn LLC, the company behind Answers Pet Food, has recalled several dog food products. Products affected include ANSWERS Detailed Beef Formula for Dogs, ANSWERS Straight Beef Formula for Dogs, and ANSWERS Straight Chicken Formula for Dogs, specifically in 4 lb. half-gallon cartons. These items were sold through both online platforms and retail channels. Consumers have been urged to check and discard the affected products promptly.
Federal health authorities recommend wearing gloves or using paper towels when handling the contaminated items to ensure safety. It is essential to sanitize all surfaces that might have come into contact with the dog food, thus preventing the spread of bacteria. The recalled products can pose severe risks to both pets and humans if proper hygiene is not maintained.
Potential Health Risks
The recall is a precautionary measure taken “out of an abundance of caution,” as per the notice posted by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). To date, no confirmed illnesses have been reported, but both salmonella and listeria can cause serious health issues. “May experience more severe illnesses that require medical treatment or hospitalization,” the CDC said. Vulnerable populations, such as pregnant women, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems, are at higher risk for severe infections.
For pets, consuming the bacteria can result in mild to severe symptoms. Listeria in dogs can cause diarrhea and vomiting, and the pets can act as carriers, spreading the bacteria further. Salmonella can lead to lethargy, diarrhea, fever, vomiting, and abdominal pain in pets. Humans handling the contaminated food can become infected if they do not wash their hands thoroughly after handling.
Answers Pet Food is voluntarily withdrawing dog food products nationwide due to fears of Salmonella and Listeria. The FDA says it received three reports of dogs becoming ill after consuming the product. https://t.co/N4MamsEWNq
— Fast Company (@FastCompany) September 25, 2024
Recommendations for Consumers
The FDA advises consumers to dispose of any affected products immediately and sanitize all contact areas. “The FDA recommends that these products should be ‘thrown out or destroyed in a way that children, pets, and wildlife cannot access it.’” Additionally, the agency stresses that consumers experiencing symptoms after contact should consult a medical provider. Careful handling and disposal are essential to prevent any potential health issues for both pets and humans.
Despite the company’s precautionary measures and the recall, it is crucial for pet owners to remain vigilant. “The FDA recommended that Answers Pet Food recall these products. To date, the firm has not initiated an adequate recall of the affected products,” according to the FDA warning. The contamination risks should not be underestimated, considering the potential severe health implications.
Sources
1. FDA Warns Recalled Dog Food Should Be ‘Thrown Out or Destroyed’
